Yang Ming Advances Green Shipping Strategy by Receiving Taiwan's First Advanced IGF Code Training Certificate

Yang Ming Advances Green Shipping Strategy by Receiving Taiwan's First Advanced IGF Code Training Certificate

In response to increasingly stringent international environmental regulations, Yang Ming continues to advance its low-carbon fleet transformation strategy by progressively replacing older vessels and deploying alternative-fuel dual-fuel vessels to provide customers worldwide with more competitive and sustainable transportation services. In preparation for the deployment of its 15,500 TEU LNG dual-fuel vessels beginning in 2026, the Company has, since April 2025, successively dispatched seafarers to attend training programs at National Taiwan Ocean University on the "International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code)" to strengthen crew competency and technical expertise in operating vessels using new-generation fuels.

Recently, Yang Ming Senior Captain Pan Ming-Yung successfully completed the rigorous training and assessment process, becoming the first person in Taiwan to obtain the No. 0001 "Advanced IGF Code Training Certificate” issued by the Maritime and Port Bureau in accordance with Regulation V/3 of the "International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW Convention)."This milestone symbolizes Yang Ming's first step toward aligning its operational safety standards for new-energy vessels with the highest international benchmarks.

In line with the global energy transition trend and the 2050 net-zero emissions target, Yang Ming has completed its deployment planning for LNG and methanol dual-fuel vessels, which will gradually enter service before 2030. To further strengthen operational safety for alternative-fuel vessels, the Company actively encourages crew members to participate in related professional training programs. To date, 247 seafarers have completed the basic training courses required for dual-fuel vessel operations, while 86 deck and engineering officers have successfully completed advanced training programs.

Crew members participating in the program are required to complete both the basic and advanced IGF Code training courses, followed by one month of onboard LNG vessel practical training, including direct participation in alternative-fuel bunkering operations. Upon receiving onboard assessment and certification from the vessel master, trainees become eligible to obtain the Advanced IGF Code Training Certificate. Through this rigorous training framework, participants significantly strengthen their professional capabilities in fuel characteristics, operational system safety, risk identification and control, and emergency response management.

The Maritime and Port Bureau has played a critical role in supporting Taiwan's green shipping transition through the promotion and professional guidance of national seafarer training programs. Following the launch of IGF Code training courses in August 2024 through collaboration between the Maritime and Port Bureau and National Taiwan Ocean University, Yang Ming Senior Captain Pan Ming-Yung successfully completed all required training and became Taiwan's first certified recipient of the "Advanced IGF Code Training Certificate." This milestone not only enhances the specialized skills required for serving on dual-fuel vessels, but also highlights Yang Ming's long-term commitment to crew development and new-energy vessel safety management. Furthermore, it establishes a solid professional foundation for the operation and management of Yang Ming's forthcoming 15,500 TEU LNG dual-fuel vessels, while demonstrating the Company's unwavering commitment to vessel, personnel, and cargo safety.

Looking ahead, Yang Ming will continue cultivating advanced maritime professionals while working closely with government agencies, academia, and industry partners to promote a new era of safe, professional, and sustainable development for Taiwan's shipping industry.